DESCRIPTION OF PLAN 



FOR THE 



IMPROVEMENT OF FAIRMOUNT PARK, 



BY 



SIDNEY & ADAMS. 



DESCRIPTION OF PLiN 



FOR THE 



iiFiif liiif if Miiiiiif Ml 



BY 



SIDNEY & ADAMS, 



Printed for the use of the ComiBittee on City Properly. 



PHILADELPHIA: 

MERRTIIEW & THOMPSON, PRINT ERS, 

Lodge Street, North side of Pennsylvania Bank'. 

1859. 



TO THE COMMITTEE ON CITY PROPERTY. 

Gentlemen: ■. c +v,a 

In oi-der to thorovgWy comprehend the topography of the 

? ' J A f„. tw. Park SO as to enable us to produce a 
ground mtended for the Park so a ^ ^^^ ^^ ^^^^ 

'f^"d tt tTe proposed sitT- have' made I topographical 
:„tCof hLernnm and Sedgeley Properties as. ell as 

that portion of the ground connecting them «th the present 

^trirw^hat laid down the contour of the ground in shaded 
lines a Tell as the trees, buildings, &c, as they ex.t at pre- 
It We submit this plan with our design to enable the com- 
Tttee tT jldge of the'practical nature of the .mprovements we 

•"■ wTwiU briefly state the principles which have guided us in 
<->iP trpatment of the grounds. , 

A PuSc Park, having for its object the recreation of he 
cittens, hould present' the greatest possible «-'-'' '»*•;« 
artSity of the city, with its straight and closely bmlt up 
It ret It iB fortunate, therefore, that the locafon and con- 
filu 'ion of the land here, is such as to adm.t of a large num- 
bfrof winding drives and walks, with little expense for cuttmg 
Vradirg the undulations of the surface being so numerous 
thafth drives and walks may be nearly all hidden from one 
Inother, and thus the effect of a park of immense 8i.e may be 
obtained in the comparatively small space allotted to us. 

The natural features of the ground are, happily, so park4^e 
already, that little more art is necessary than to con^ple.e what 
L already so perfect in outline ; we have therefore avoided 
everythVng formal or geometrical, except where some especial 
obiect showed it to be desirable. , . , , ■ r •» 

•"Eural enjoyment is most effectually obtained by s.mpl.city, 
both in general design and embellishment ; it has therefore been 
orobjeet to utilize that which nature has already made beaut.- 
Z rather than to introduce showy, complicated, formal and 
Itestarly expensive artificial features; of these the cuUivated 
mTnd would soon tire, whilst they could teach nothirg to the 
uncultivated but bad taste. 



On the other hand, architectural ornaments to a limited ex- 
tent, designed to suit particular localities and necessities, are not 
only indispensable, but, when properly treated, will aid materially 
in giving effect to picturesque scenery, thus showing the strong 
relationship which always exists between landscape gardening 
and architecture. 

All improvements of an architectural character should be sim- 
ple and chaste, without degenerating into meanness, and should 
be made to harmonize with the surrounding features ; and so 
carried out that the spectator would at once be impressed with 
the idea that such an embellishment was naturally required. 

As the object of all true art is to combine instruction with 
amusement and recreation, the greatest variety of trees and 
shrubs that can be made to serve the purpose of the landscape 
gardener should be introduced ; and thus, in a great measure, 
to the interest of a Public Park, there would be added the ad- 
vantages of a popular arboretum. 

The principles we have adopted for our guidance will lead us 
to preserve the many fine trees already on the ground ; (some of 
them, for instance, specimens of the Geltis occidentalis or "nettle 
tree," being considered the finest in the State ;) we will except 
only the very few that may be in the way of necessary drives, 
also the fruit trees which age has rendered unsightly, and which 
might be defaced by the thoughtless for the sake of their fruit. 

Even the oval plantation near the large hickory, unsightly as 
it is in its present condition, Tve propose to leave ; and by adding 
dwarf evergreens and shrubs inside and outside, so to alter its 
appearance as to make it one of the most interesting features 
on the grounds. 

The baildings now on the place can also be made not only 
useful an.i ornamental, without much expense, but also to appear 
necessary to the perfection of the Plan. 

The roads and walks are so laid out as to accommodate them- 
selves easily and naturally to the configuration of the ground. 
In this way the most beautiful forms of roads are obtained, 
whilst expensive cuttings and embankments are avoided. And 
as the surface of the ground is already so beautifully adapted 
for every desired purpose, the only grading necessary will be in 
the formation of the road beds. 

Although following the undulations of the ground, the roads 
have been so laid out that every striking scene and change of 
scene is rought prominently into view, in as many different 



aspects as possible ; so that every available feature of the place 
shall at every step be made to create an interest in the be- 
holder. 

The planting, as will be fully explained under that head, has 
been arranged with the same view. 

We have not laid out any road for the sake of merely increas- 
ing the length of the drives, but always for some object or par- 
ticular point of view. For all the variety that can be desired, 
will be obtained by placing the roads and walks where they are 
actually required, and all over and above these will only cut up 
the ground into patches and cause unnecessary expense. 

The curves should be easy and graceful, both for appearance 
sake as well as for ease in driving, and the grade should never 
be so difficult ag to cause apprehension of danger ; and to effect 
this, we need only to follow the natural inequalities of the 
ground. 

A certain extent of private and well shaded walks have been 
provided for those fond of retirement ; especially in spots along 
the uneven and rugged banks of the river, which present excel- 
lent facilities for beautiful effects in this way. 

Dry and compact roads are very important. They should be 
constructed so as not to be liable to be broken up by frost or 
rain, but capable of being used satisfactorily at any period of 
the year. 

Planting. 

The arrangement of the trees we have made an important 
feature in our Plan, as so many valuable objects can be effected 
by judiciously placing and classifying them. 

By planting trees indiscriminately, without any regard to 
their character and habits, everywhere along the sides of walks 
and in all directions, the Park would degenerate into a forest, 
forming only a shady retreat, and for such purpose ten or 
twenty acres would be as good as a hundred. 

The beautiful effects of light and shade which constitute the 
charm of a landscape, have been studied in locating peculiar 
groups near particular configurations of the ground. 

So also the trees comprising each group we would so select 
as to give each portion of the ground a peculiar interest at dif- 
ferent seasons, and no two portions of the ground would present 
the same appearance at the same time. Thus every day will 
bring forward some new beauty, and every part of the place 
possess its own peculiar charms. 



We have not thought it necessary to explain how we propose 
to accomplish this in eygry instance ; but that the idea may 
be clearly understood, we annex an appendix (No. 1) detailing 
the formation and planting of twenty-four of the principal groups 
and single specimens. 

It will be seen by reference to our Plan, that we contemplate 
planting a thick screen of deciduous trees on the outside bounda- 
ries of the Park adjoining Pennsylvania Landing and Girard 
Avenue. We deem this necessary on account of the proximity 
of the railroad, and also to shut out as much as possible the view 
from within the Park, of buildings now existing or likely to be 
put up around its borders. Once in the Park one should not 
be reminded of the city. 

We do not propose to plant this screen in a regular straight 
line or belt, but to break it up by plantations, irregular in the 
front wherever the nature of the ground will admit. 

This screen or border should be composed of deciduous trees 
attaining a medium height and of a dense habit of growth, so 
that with a few evergreens interspersed between them, they will 
make a good winter screen. Hardy deciduous shrubs should 
also be introduced to form a thick undergrowth, as well as dwarf 
evergreens, as Kalmia latifolia, Rhododendron maximum. Ilex 
opaca, &c. 

The most beautiful groupings formed naturally, are never to 
be found placed at regular intervals, or of one general character. • 
Hence we would plant trees with the view of avoiding uniformity 
and so dispose them as to show one another to the greatest ad- 
vantage, by the contrasts which color and the variation of form, 
height and foilage present. 

We have placed groups in situations so as to afford between 
them the best distant views from the drives ; at the same time 
keeping also in mind the effect to be produced within the Park 
itself. 

Our Plan shows what we should deem sufiicient plantations, 
to give warmth and expression to all parts of the Park, and 
sufficient shade without crowding, or as it might be said, destroy- 
ing space for the sake of merely multiplying the trees. We thus 
attain the effect of open stretches of turf, so grateful to the eye 
and always so agreeable to the inhabitants of a closely populated 
city. 

In those parts of the Park most likely to be visited during 
winter, evergreens should be plentifully scattered. They will 



produce a feeling of comfort and ■warmth, which deciduous trees 
when denuded of their foliage fail to impart. 

The steep banks of the south end of the park as well as along 
the river, should be planted with a preponderance of evergreens 
such as the hemlock, pines, juniper, laurel, &c., as their pecu- 
liar color harmonizes better with the rocks, especially in winter. 
The dense, deep shade such as evergreens afford, will tend to 
relieve the glare of a large surface of water like the Schuylkill 
on a bright summer's day. The popular drives on the Wissa- 
hickon aflford well known illustrations of this principle. 

For reasons already given, the aROUPiNG system of planting 
is the only one, from the nature of the ground, which the true 
principles of landscape gardening will admit of with any beauti- 
ful effect ; but even this becomes wearisome when carried to ex- 
tremes. To guard against this, single specimens of trees, the 
most beautiful either in form, foliage or flowers, should be fre- 
quently planted throughout the Park, where they do not already 
exist. 

The terraces to the east of the house, instead of destroying, 
we propose to turn into an interesting feature not often seen in 
parks, but which the small instances in Washington and Frank- 
lin Squares, show to be highly appreciated by the masses. We 
mean the introduction of beds of roses and flowering shrubs. 
These terraces are prettily adapted for this purpose. 

Flowering vines can also be profitably employed in adorning 
rocks and summer houses to be noticed hereafter. 

A certain amount of diversity of color is always produced by 
planting the different varieties of trees of whatever kind together, 
but attention should sometimes be especially directed to this 
feature by placing groups at some little distance from the drives 
composed of trees selected for the purpose, such as the Scarlet 
Oak, Sugar, Norway and Red Maples, Abele, Purple Beech, 
English Beech, Sassafras, Liquidambar, White Birch, Dogwood, 
&c. 

Whenever a cluster is formed it should not be composed wholly 
of trees that do not branch out till at some distance from the 
ground, which thus present their naked and bare stems, but 
small trees and shrubs should be judiciously interspersed amongst 
them, so as to blend the mass easily and freely with the ground. 
The rhododendron is especially desirable for this purpose as it 
thrives well under larger trees. 

For the grand Avenue or Promenade — on the grass border be- 



8 

tween tlie drive and the walk on each side — we should desire to 
plant the beautiful American Elm, did not experience show that 
it is sharing the fate of the European Linden, and falling a prey 
more and more every year to the destructive worm. 

The American Linden is free from any objectionable features, 
and by its quick growth yet long life, spreading head, and sweet, 
scented flowers, is well adopted to make a desirable and well 
shaded drive. The famous " Unter den Linden" in Berlin is a 
well known example. 

The row on the sides of the walk may be appropriately 
formed of Norway or Sycamore Maples which will keep pace 
with the growth of the Lindens. 

Near the water, about the head and sides of the canal, near 
the entrances and occasionally in the bends of the walks weep- 
ing willows, weeping ashes and other weeping trees are proposed 
to be introduced. 

We would also take due advantage of cultivating such trees 
as by the color of their berries give variety and character to 
plantations. 

Preparing the iSoil. 

After deducting the space occupied by roads and walks, 
rocky hill sides, buildings, &c., there will remain about fifty 
acres of the park which will require to be brought into a good 
state of cultivation for the production of fine turf and the thrifty 
growth of plantations. 

Without a deep soil, trees never attain their full vigor, and 
grass becomes quickly dried up and burnt during summer, when 
freshness is most required. 

On the broad open spots where but few plantations occur, 
deep sub-soil ploughing with a liberal application of manure or 
fertilizing agents will answer the required purpose; but where it 
is proposed to plant, the ground should be thoroughly trenched 
with the pick and spade to a depth of two feet. 

Before turning up the ground, the turf at present existing in 
many parts of the Park might be stripped oflf as wanted, and 
economically employed in turfing borders and other places pre- 
viously prepared. 

Enclosure. 

We would suggest for the present that the Park should be 
enclosed by a high picket fence, somewhat similar to that 



9 

around the newly laid out ground north of the Fairmount Basins. 
It would scarcely be seen from the inside of the Park, being 
concealed by the screen of plantations proposed to be put up 
around the borders. 

This fence, if of proper materials, will last many years, and 
by the time it requires renewal we think so great an interest will 
be taken in the Park by citizens generally, as to warrant the 
erection of one more permanent and appropriate to the chief 
pleasure resort of the inhabitants of a city like Philadelphia. 



GENERAL DESCRIPTION OF PLAN. 

Plot not oioned by the City. 

Impressed with the great importance of the fact, that the 
small strip of land lying between the present Fairmount Park 
and Lemon Hill, (not at present owned by the city,) should be 
included in any design offered for the improvement of the new 
Park, and thus make a continuous water front from the Wire 
Bridge to the north end of the Park above the Spring Garden 
Waterworks ; we have laid it out on our Plan, so as to connect 
the whole. 

Should this strip not be obtained by the city, it may, and 
probably will, become a nuisance, by the erection of factories 
thereon, which will not only fill the water with impurities, and 
that immediately above the forebay, but also destroy the con- 
nection between the old and new Parks, and make the access 
much less convenient and imposing. 

The cost of improving this part, (independent of the pur- 
chase,) as will be seen in the detailed estimate, will not be very 
great, and will be more than compensated for by the greatly 
enhanced beauty of the whole. 

The piece of ground owned by the city and separated from 
the Park by Landing Avenue, we have also thrown into the 
Park, supposing that Landing Avenue might be changed, so as 
to run at the southern boundary of the land in question. This 
would add a large piece of ground in a part where it seems 
desirable, in order to improve the valley Avhich is between it and 
the bank on the west side of the canal. 



10 

We beg to say, however, that neither of these pieces of land 
are in any way necessary to the completeness of our design, as 
by removing the entrance to the angle of Landing Avenue, no 
alteration would be required, further than to modify the road 
slightly at that point, should the change in Landing Avenue 
and the purchase of the other portion of ground not be accom- 
plished. 

Entrances. 

The entrance on Green Street, from its character, as well as 
its being the nearest to the most populous part of the city, will 
probably be used to a considerable extent, if the two Parks are 
connected, as suggested. 

We have located two principal gates, one at Coates street and 
the other at Girard Avenue. That on Coates street must ne- 
cessarily be transferred to Landing Avenue, if the connection 
is not made. These we propose to make ornamental and worthy 
of their purpose. Sketch No. 1 we offer as a suggestion. 

A gate house should be put up at the Coates street entrance, 
in keeping with it ; the old house near the Girard Avenue en- 
trance could be made ornamental, and is sufficiently near the 
gate to answer the purpose. Gate houses may be thought 
superfluous, but they would certainly help to give dignity to the 
entrances, and would serve as residences for some of the em- 
ployee's necessary for the maintenance of the Park. 

We have located two minor entrances on Pennsylvania 
avenue, one on Landing avenue and one on Girard avenue, close 
to the abutments of the bridge, to accommodate visitors from the 
western side of the river. 

We deem these entrances necessary in addition to the two 
principal ones, in order to afford easy access and prevent con- 
fusion when large crowds are visiting the Park. They may be 
composed of simple but strong iron gates, with granite posts. 

Extension of ground yet to he acquired. 

Should the city become the owners of the strip of land be- 
fore alluded to between the present Fairmount Park and Lemon 
Hill, we propose to fill up the canals which intersect it, with the 
exception of that leading to the mill, which we presume must 
necessarily be left open for the passage of boats ; also to fill up 
the low part of the ground so as to make its general grade at 
least as high as that of Landing Avenue. 



11 

We also propose to dock out and extend this piece of land 
considerably further into the river as shown in the Plan, by 
which means a large space will be gained, greater breadth will 
be given to that part of the grounds, and a much better water 
line established. 

The material necessary for filling can be obtained at a very 
reasonable cost from the excavation of the streets east of L lad- 
ing avenue, which require much cutting down to bring them to 
grade. 

We propose that the docking should be of stone in preference 
to wood, as being more permanent, not more expensive, and as 
presenting a more finished, easy and natural outline. 

This docking we would form of heavy stone rubble work laid 
dry, founded on the solid below the bed of the river, built with 
a batter of 4 inches to the foot on the front, and finished with 
a stone coping on the top of all. 

This will form a much more pleasing boundary to the water 
line than an upright dock of wood, and if properly built will 
of course be far more durable. 

Walks on the Extension. 

We have laid out the walks on this portion in rather a more 
formal style than those on the hill, on account of its being 
nearly a dead level, as well as to make the transition more easy 
from the streets and that part of the Park already laid out 
north of the Fairmount basins to where the natural undulations 
of the ground are more strictly preserved. 

Summer Houses. 

We have marked sites for summer houses on this part, in the 
prominent places where good views of the water can be obtained, 
and planted with a view to giving as much shade as possible 
without reference to grouping to any extent. 

Here the summer houses should display more ornament and 
be of a more elaborate character than those designed for the 
more rural parts of the Park. See Sketch No. 2. 

Foot Bridges. 

We propose to connect the walks of this portion with those in 
the Park by ornamental foot bridges over the mill canal and 
that north of it, so that visitors may stroll along the banks of 



12 

the river without interruption or need of returning to the main 
avenue. 

Fountain. 

On the tongue of land between the two canals, we place an 
ornamental fountain, which will be suflBcientlj removed from the 
river so as not to lose its effect by having a back ground of 
water, and will be an attractive feature viewed from the main 
avenue. 

The low situation of this spot unattainable in any other part of 
the Park, in a suitable aspect, aiFords facilities for making this 
fountain equal to any thing of the kind in the country. 

Avenue or Promenade. 

We have laid out a broad avenue or promenade from the 
entrance on Coates street, running over the level with an easy 
course till it reaches the canal, and thence in a straight line 
along the level ground between the foot of the hill and the 
boat-houses, up to the south-west point of the Park, terminating 
easily with a large circle, in which a summer-house, monument, 
or other ornamental structure may be appropriately placed. 

We consider a grand promenade or avenue almost essential to 
a Public Park where practicable, and this stretch of nearly level 
ground seems to suggest itself as not only the most suitable, 
but in every respect most desirable for the purpose. 

It will form, as it were, a grand approach to the Park itself, 
and gives an air of stateliness such as could not be obtained by 
a mere entrance leading directly on to the curved and undula- 
ting drives. 

We propose to make this avenue 96 feet in width altogether ; 
allowing 60 for the carriage drive, 8 feet for a grass border be- 
tween the drive and walk, and 10 feet for the walks on each 
side. The turf borders and sides of the walks to be planted as 
before mentioned. See Cross Section, Sketch No. 3. 

This avenue will be nearly half a mile in length, sufficiently 
long to give it a stately and dignified appearance. 

This will enable pedestrians, as well as carriages, to enter 
and leave the Park without confusion, and without interfering 
with each other ; it will form the great artery from whence the 
various drives and walks leading into interior of the Park will 
diverge. 



13 

The two canals are crossed by ornamental bridges of iron 
with stone abutments. 

Should the low ground not be obtained by the city, the avenue 
could be commenced at Landing avenue, and thus form a grand 
entrance as well as a promenade. 

Boat Mouses. 
The boat bouses we think should be remodelled and improved, 
so as to be in keeping with the surroundings, and we are assured 
by several of the boat clubs, that this will be cheerfully done, 
by the young gentlemen composing these clubs at their own ex- 
pense. 

Drive along River Bank. 

From the avenue several roads lead off, as shown on the plan. 
That starting at the end of the avenue and running along the 
river, we propose to make 30 ft. wide, as a greater width would 
be not only very expensive, but detract much from the rural and 
romantic features which the banks here present. 

There are two places where the rock overhangs the water, 
which we do not propose to cut away, but to lead the road un- 
derneath, by means of a tunnel or archway cut through the rock, 
as shown in Sketch No. 4. 

This will keep intact the picturesque character of the banks, 
and will form a very pretty feature in the drive. 

This drive we continue underneath Girard Bridge, there being 
space large enough outside the abutments to allow of its being 
done without much trouble; thus connecting (besides the mode 
mentioned hereafter) the two portions of the Park separated by 
Girard avenue. 

As the roads laid down in that part of the Park north of 
Girard avenue sufficiently explain themselves on the Plan, we 
do not consider it necessary to describe them here. 

From the River Drive, as will be seen, a road is laid out up the 
the slope to connect with the roads on the hill, so that parties 
not wishing to go into the upper or northern part of the Park 
may drive on to the high ground, without returning back again 
by the River Road. 

From this drive we have also laid out several walks, wind- 
ing up the sides and amongst the trees and rocks, which we think 
will be appreciated by those in search of the retired and pic- 
turesque. They will here find shelter and also obtain fine views 
at the intervals or openings. 



14 

A spring in the hollow on the East side of the River drive, 
a few hundred feet south of the Bridge, affords a good oppor- 
tunity for placing a drinking fountain. 

From the Promenade near the proposed bridge over the 
canal, we have laid out a road 40 feet in width, which runs on the 
East side of the canal, by the chalybeate spring, shortly after 
passing which it divides, separating into three forty feet wide 
roads or drives ; one leading much in the direction of the old road 
to the house, one alongside the Eastern boundary of the Park, 
and the other directly into the centre of the grounds. 

Zoological garden. 

On the east side of this road, near its connection with the 
main avenue and partly on the strip of land now the property of 
the city, but at present separated from the Park by Landing 
avenue, and extending up to the large willow trees, we have des- 
ignated the site for a Zoological collection. "We are informed 
that a society of gentlemen of position and means has been 
formed, who will undertake the improvement and maintenance 
of this plot of ground, with a view of keeping a collection of 
rare animals and birds, if they should obtain the privilege of 
doing so from the city. 

We deem this place appropriate for the purpose, because it is 
well sheltered, it has a good supply of water, and will improve 
and make available a piece of land, which it would otherwise be 
diflBcult to lay out to advantage. 

Should the piece of land alluded to not be included in the Park 
or should the collection of the Zoological Society not be located 
on these grounds, the drive can be left as it is on the Plan, without 
detriment, and the border between the road and Landing avenue 
be planted as the other boundaries of the Park. 

If the ground should be appropriated to the Society, the en- 
closure next to the drive should be of a light open character, 
kept back at least twenty feet from the road, and the space be- 
tween it and the fence planted thickly with shrubs. By this 
means it will be kept private and will not in any way mar the 
beauty of the drive. 

Canal. 

To enable the road to be made with an easy curve, we propose 
to fill up about one hundred feet of the north end of the canal, 
which now only presents patches of mud, and by means of rocks 



15 

thrown together in a natural manner to form a small cascade, 
which will be supplied from the springs above. This will much 
relieve the stiff and abrupt lines of the north end of the canal 
and render its artificial character less apparent. 

Parade and play ground. 

On the level north of the willow trees we have located a Pa. 
rade and play ground. This we think the most satisfactory 
place, as it is the only part of the Park, where sufficient level 
space can be obtained, without disturbing the natural outlines ; 
and it has besides this very important recommendation— every 
part of it can be overlooked, for the ground sloping upwards 
from it on all sides within the Park will afford a natural amphi- 
theatre, and will accommodate many thousands of spectators, 
with ample space for all to enjoy a view without obstructing one 
another. 

This piece of ground has no trees now on it worth preserva- 
tion, and can be made to suit the desired purpose with but little 
outlay. 

Old Cottage. 

The oldcottage near the north end of the old terraced garden 
may be renovated and embellished so as to be made useful as a 
dwelling. 

Walks at head of Canal. 

The walks laid out on the west side of the road, to the north 
of the canal will be for years to come the most shady in the Park, 
there being many fine old specimens of trees growing thickly 
hereabouts, particularly of the deciduous cypress. 

Pond. 

The small pond at the foot of the bank we propose to clean 
out, wall around, and enlarge slightly ; and stock it with gold fish, 
which always prove very attractive, especially to children. 

Drainage. 

The ground around this spot will require some drainage, which 
we propose to do by stone drains. The run down the hollow 
will require a culvert of three feet in diameter, to ensure a prop- 
er discharge of water during wet weather, as it will be the chan- 
nel for a large water shed. 



16 

Reasons for not making a Lake. 

We could have made a lake in this neighborhood which might 
have been kept supplied from the springs abounding here, but we 
consider that grand natural features should not be pettily imita- 
ted, and as the extent of artificial water created would necessa- 
rily be limited, it would only look unmeaning and out of place 
close to so large a body of water as the Schuylkill. 

Chalybeate spring. 

The springs afford an opportunity for placing drinking foun- 
tains, and the chalybeate spring should be cleaned out, stoned up 
and proper contrivances for obtaining the water furnished. 

Road on hill from end of promenade. 

From the promenade near its termination at the south west 
point of the Park, we have laid out a forty feet wide road, which 
runs up the natural ravine some distance till it divides into two. 

One of these roads leads easterly to the house, connecting 
with the road from the east side of the Park and that running 
through the centre. The other branch vands up the liill side 
to the top of the point, a little south of the fine large elm tree. 
From this point one of the finest views in the Park will be ob- 
tained, commanding, as it does, the broad bay of the river above 
the dam as a foreground, the Fairmount water- works, wire bridge 
and a great part of the city, as well as a fine view westward and 
northward. 

We have here placed, a little removed from the road, a rustic 
summer house, as also on the several projecting points of rock 
on the west side of this road, where good views are obtained. 
As a suggestion for these summer houses, see Sketch No. 5. 

The large hickory tree to the right of the elm, which cannot 
survive long, we propose to treat as shown in Sketch No. 6, mak- 
ing it useful as well as ornamental. 

Climbers, such as trumpet vine, Chinese wistaria, &c. will ere 
long clothe it in green, and nest covers may be placed in the 
branches to attract the birds. 

The road continues past the walk before described along the 
brow of the high ground, following the curvature of the land, 
along the west side of the Park with frequent changes of 
scenery. 

From this road as will be seen on the Plan, serpentine walks 
rm down the hill sides, and amongst the rocks, connecting 



17 

with the river drive, as well as with points suitable for summer 
houses and rustic seats. 

Cross roads also connect this road with the roads running 
through the center of the Park, also with the road to the east 
of the Parade Ground. 

The plantations are here arranged to afford occasional glimpses 
between them, of the river and the scenery beyond, and so as to 
give sufficient shade without, being planted in formal rows. 

Bridge over Crirard Avenue. 

The road is continued into the northern part of the Park, by 
means of a bridge thrown over Girard avenue. See Sketch 
No. 7. 

The grade of the avenue enables us to accomplish this at the 
point marked on the Plan, and this we deem very desirable, in 
order to counteract the effect that would otherwise be produced 
of the Park being cut in two by a public street. 

We propose to slope the sides of the avenue, and plant them 
thickly with bushy deciduous and evergreen trees, so as to shut 
out entirely the view from the Park of the street below. 

The roads in the part north of Girard avenue we propose to 
make thirty feet wide. 

The road leading to Girard avenue entrance, the cross 
roads, interior walks, &c., we think it unecessary to dwell upon, as 
they will be fully understood by reference to the Plan. 

Length of Roads and Walks, 

The total length of roads laid out, amounts to three and a 
quarter miles, and of walks three and one third miles, or a to- 
tal of nearly seven miles. 

Horticultural Society. 

The piece of ground north of the Spring Garden water works, 
is inacessible from the Park, by a carriage drive, unless at a 
very great expense. 

The members of the Horticultural Society, we are assured, 
are prepared to improve and plant this part at their own ex- 
pense, if appropiated to their use. We think this would be in every 
respect, the best method of turning it to use, as it is separated 
from the Park by the water works, and naturallythe abrupt- 
ness of the approach. 

If improved under the auspices of the Society, it would create 



18 

an attraction in a part where but little exists, and would serve 
as a good boundary to the northern end of the Park. 

If not used for botanical purposes, we would suggest, that the 
north boundary line should be thickly planted out with trees, 
and a walk run around the brow of the hill. 

Small Houses. 

The small house south of Girard avenue, we propose to re 
model, so as to make it suitable for the residence of a gate 
keeper as before mentioned. 

Mansion. 

The mansion we propose to repair thoroughly inside and out. 
To make a public room of the large oval parlour on the first 
story, with a large retiring room, and an office for the use of the 
committee, in the remaining part of the floor. The basement 
and second story will be all sufficient for the residence of the 
superintendent. 

We propose to put up a Piazza sixteen feet wide on the South, 
East and West sides of the House, with an approach by a flight 
of steps from the South front. This Piazza will be very capa- 
cious and will afibrd shelter and a resting place for a large number 
of visitors. Sketch No. 8 will explain our idea. 

Rustic Seats. 

Rustic seats should be plentifully scattered about the Park as 
resting places. These should be of iron, or they will be other- 
wise soon defaced. 

Turf. 

Fine velvety turf is all important to the beauty and enjoyment 
of the Park, and will give as much pleasure as even fine trees. 

Fine turf cannot be obtained, however rich the soil may be 
made, if the grass is allowed to grow, as it is in most of our 
public squares, till long enough to make hay. We would suggest 
that sheep should be introduced for the purpose of keeping the 
grass down. The fine lawns of England would not exist, were 
it not that they are kept down by constant mowing or by turning 
sheep on to them, which manure and enrich whilst they refine 
the sward. As a matter of economy too, sheep will be found 
more profitable than leaving the grass for hay, and they will aid 
in giving a rural and picturesque efiect to the Park. 



19 



estim:a.te. 



Although we have considered it a duty to make our plan as 
complete as possible, and therefore have included the addition of 
the ground not yet owned by the city, and have besides sug- 
gested several improvements and embellishments, not absolutely 
necessary, — in our estimate we have calculated only the cost of 
laying out the Park so far as the ground, now actually the pro- 
perty of the city, is concerned. 

Many of the merely ornamental features suggested, although 
they would materially assist in beautifying the Park, may be 
dispensed with; and these we have included in Appendix No. 2, 
forming a supplementary estimate, which gives the cost of car- 
rying out the whole of the improvements called for by our Plan. 

The avenue we propose to make dry and solid, by a layer first 
of unbroken stone, laid so as to form a species of rough pave- 
ment, 9 in. deep. As this will also act as a drain, the roadbed 
should be formed with a curve of 8 in., from the sides to the centre, 
for the avenue, and 6 in. for the 40 ft. roads. 

Over this first layer of stone we would put 6 in. of broken stone 
and 3 in. of red gravel over all. It is often the custom to put 
a greater thickness of covering in the centre of the road, but as 
in this instance the sides will be used as much as the centre, we 
do not think it advisable to make any change. 

The side gutters of the avenue should be 2 ft. 6 in. broad, paved 
with cobble or small quarry stones, on edge. These stones will 
be found to answer the purpose better than brick or flat stones, 
for the gutter, and will look more natural. 

In making our calculations for the roads, we base them on the 
fact that sufficient rough stone for forming their foundations will 
be obtained from the road beds, and regulating to be done on the 
grounds. 

To make the estimate ample, however, we have calculated the 
cost of stone at a sufficient price to quarry it out of the rocks 
at the north end of the Park, and deliver it where required, should 
enough not be obtained in forming the road beds, &c. 



20 

The avenue will require 2,530 perches of stone for the 

bottom layer, which at 60 cents per perch, will cost $1518 

1,700 perches broken stone, at $1 

776 yards of gravel at 75 cents . 

Formation of roadbed, 90 lin. rods, at $9 

Side Gutters, 180 lin. rods, at $1.25 . 

Turf border on each side 180 rods, at $1 

2 side walks 10 feet wide, complete as follows: 6 in. 
of broken stone as a bed, 616 perches, at $1 

190 yards of gravel, at 75 cents 



11518 


00 


1700 


00 


582 


00 


810 


00 


225 


00 


180 


00 


616 


00 


142 


50 



$5773 50 



We propose to cover the road bed of the 40 ft. and 30 ft. roads 
with 9 in. of broken stone and 3 in. of gravel, with a side gutter 
of 18 in. in width. 
There are 9,400 feet in length of forty feet roads, 

which we estimate at $12 per rod complete - $6072 00 

Of 30 perches wide road there are 5,600 ft, or 336 

rods, at $9 per rod 3024 00 

Add to this extra cost on River Drive . . . 1000 00 

The walks will average 7 feet in width, as they range from 
12 feet on the levels to 4 and 6 feet on the steep side hills. 
There are 730 rods of walks, exclusive of those on the contem- 
plated addition, and those on each side of the main avenue 
already estimated. 

The walks, in many places, amongst the rocks, will require no 
gravel or covering whatever, as they will be cut out of the hard 
rock, and no gravel would remain if placed there. We allow 6 
inches of stone for a foundation, and 2 inches of gravel for the 
walks, with side gutters, where required. 
The cost of these, we calculate, will average $4 per 

rod, making a total of . . . $2920 00 

Enclosure — Posts of Chestnut. Rail 3 by 4, and 
bottom board 12 inches wide, of white pine. 
Pickets 4 by 1^ inches, by 5 feet long, thus 
forming a fence 6 feet high. Of this there will 
be 305 rods, including each side of Girard Ave- 
nue, which, at $4'50 per rod, will amount to $1372 50 
500 feet of low river wall, above boat houses, and 

in sundry places — 250 perches, at $2, $ 500 00 



21 



According to the Plan, we estimate that the following trees 
will be necessary, viz : 

5000 deciduous trees, at 60 cents, . . . $3000 00 

3000 evergreens, at 75 cents, . . . 2250 00 

1000 larger deciduous trees, at $2, . . . 2000 00 

6000 shrubs, at 25 cents, .... 1500 00 

Planting above, 1500 00 



$10,250 00 

The cost of preparing and properly manuring fifty 
acres of soil, as before described, including seeds, 
&c., supposing one-half will be subsoiled, and the 
remainder trenched, we estimate at $100 per acre, $5000 00 

1500 feet of stone drains, necessary in the low ground, 
as well as to conduct water in places from one side 
of the road to the other, below the surface, at 20 
cents per foot, amounts to ... $300 00 

500 feet of 3 feet culvert, .... 500 00 



Bridge over Girard Avenue, with stone abutments 

and superstructure of timber, 
Bridge over canal, . . ... 



Cleaning and arranging pond. 

Repairing and fitting Chalybeate Spring, . 



$800 00 

$2000 00 
3500 00 

$5500 00 

$250 00 
200 00 



$450 00 
Two entrances, one at Girard Avenue and one on 

Landing avenue, at $1000 each, . . $2000 00 

3 minor entrances, at $250 each, . . 750 00 



$2750 00 



Dressing up Park, 



$5000 00 



22 



KECAPITULATION OF ESTIMATE. 



Enclosure 


. $ 1372 00 


Roads and Walks 


. 18789 00 


Trees .... 


10250 00 


Preparing soil 


. 5000 00 


Drainage 


800 00 


Bridges .... 


5500 00 


Pond and Chalybeate spring 


500 00 


Entrances .... 


. 2750 00 


Dressing up Park 


5000 00 




$49,961 00 


Contingencies 10 per cent. 


4996 00 




$54,957 00 


Superintendence 5 per cent. 


2,747 00 



Total $57,704 00 

It is a prevailing idea that estimates for public work are 
made invariably below actual cost, and experience in many cases 
has proved the accuracy of the impression. Having had many 
years experience in the above kind of work, we feel convinced 
that our estimates will be found ample, and we are prepared to 
execute the whole or a part of the work at the prices named. 
The first work done should be the enclosure of the Park, so as 
to preserve the trees from injury. 

Portions of the planting and opening of the principal drives 
should be the next operation, as the Park is sufficiently beauti- 
ful by nature to attract visitors without the aid of all the im- 
provements proposed at once. 

By judicious management a comparatively small sum expended 
annually will, within a few years, bring the Park to such per- 
fection as to render it a source of health and recreation to thou- 
sands, and one of the greatest ornaments of our city. 

Very respectfully, 

SIDNEY & ADAMS. 



23 



APPENDIX No. 1. 

List of 24 groups and single trees, as example of plants we propose : 

1. Group of trees floxoering in early spring, with showy flower, and of 
moderate growth, 

-^sculus hippocastanura (Horse Chestnut), Alnus glutinosa (Tree Al- 
der), Acer rubrum (Red Maple), Crataegus Oxycantha (Hawthorn), Dou- 
ble Flowering Peach, bearing no fruit, Oytisus laburnum, (Common La- 
burnum), Halesia Teraptera (Silver Bell), A^elanchia botryapium 
(Snowy Mespilus), Salix caprea (Goat Willow), Magnolia conspicua 
("White Chinese Magnolia), Flowering cherry tree. 

2. Gvow"^ oiivQQs oi moderate groioth, floxoering in summer, -(Esculus 
rubicunda (Red-flowering Horse Chestnut), Robinia pseud-acacia 
(Flowering Locust), Castanea Americana (Sweet Chestnut), Cerasus 
seratina (Choke Cherry), Catalpa Tree, Pyrus Aucuparia (Mountain 
Ash), Cephalanthus occidentalis, Cornus mascula (Cornelian Cherry), 
Cornus Florida (Virginian Dogwood), Magnolia tripetela, Pawlonia im- 
perialis (Emperor Tree), Chionanthus Virginicus (White Fringe), Kol- 
renteria paniculata (Chinese Varnish Tree), Magnolia glauca (Swamp 
Laurel). 

3. Group of Evergreens of a spiral character as a peculiar object of ap- 
proach from walk, and occasionally as single trees, such as Abies excelsa 
(Norway Spruce). 

4. Group of i)i^Ja7/6Ks/iy ^rees to cover entrance of walk. Acer cam- 
pestre (Cork-bark Maple), Acer austriacum (Austrian Maple), Carpinus 
betnlus (Hornbeam), Ptelea trifoliata (Trefoil Tree), Prunus mahaleb 
(Perfumed Cherry), Amorpha fruticosa (Indigo Shrub), Cornus (Dog- 
wood of many kinds), Euonymus (burning bush of many kinds), Rhamnus 
Caroliniensis (Carolina Buckthorn). 

5. Group of strong growing forest trees. Acer pseudo platanus (the 
Sycamore or Great Maple), Platanus orientalis (Plane Tree), Lirioden- 
dron tulipifera (Tulip Tree), Linden, Sugar Maple, Tilia Americana 
(American Linden), Ulmus Americana (American Elm). 

6. Group of Evergreens with large bushy heads. Austrian and Scotch 
Pine, principally. 

7. Single tree of Gymnocladus Canadensis (Kentucky Coffee Tree). 

8. Single tree of the great Himalayan Pine (Pinus excelsa). 

9. Group of Taxodium Distichum (Deciduous Cypress), having a 
peculiarly graceful upright growth. 

10. Group of trees with hrilliant colored leaves at the fall of the year. 
Quercus coccinea (Scarlet Oak), Acer saccharinum (Sugar Maple), 

Acer platanoides (Norway Maple, Acer rubrum (Red Maple), Carpinus 
Americana (Water Beech), Lyriodendron tulipifera (Tulip Tree), Ameri- 
can White Ash, Sassafras, Nyssa sylvatica (Gum), Liquidambar (Sweet 
Gum), American Dogwood. 

11. G\'o\\\i 0^ Pinus Strohus (Weymouth or White Pines.) 

12. Single tree of the Cedrus Libani {Cedav of Lebanon), to be placed 
where it will not be crowded upon by other trees. Fine dark green with 
horizontal boughs. » 

13. Group of trees retaining their leaves till late in the fall in contrast 
to group 10. Acer campestre, Acer Austriacum, Acer uegundo, Alnus 
glutinosa (European Alder), Fraxinus excelsa (European Ash), Quercus 
robur (British Oak), Quercus cerris (Turkey Oak), Quercus phellos (Wil- 
low Oak). — 

14. Group of the different kinds of Betula (Birch). 

15. Gron]) of Evergreen trees. The Abies Canadensis (Hemlock Spruce 
Fir), in the middle, with round headed pines around them. 

16. Group of ifagrno/e'as. Many varieties and having peculiarly strik- 
ing features. 



24 



17. Group of all the hinds of hardy oaJc, twenty varieties. 

18. Group of Larix Europoea (European Larch). 

19. Group of trees remarkable for their colored folmgein spring. Varie- 
gated Sycamore, variegated Oak, Purple Beech, Purple Hazel, variegated 
Ash, Colchican Maple, Buffalo Berry (Shepperdea argentea), Hippophoea 
Rahmnoides (Sea Buckthorn). 

20. Group of Beech. Also in single trees, especially the English. 

21. English Silver Fir, Picea pectenata, as a single tree, very fine. 

22. Group of Shrubs flowering in spring and summer. Laburnum, 
Colutea arborescens (Yellow-bladder Senna), Crataegus (Thorns), Magno- 
lia purpurea, Philadeljihus caronarius( Fragrant Syringe), Rhus cotinus 
(Purple fringe tree), Syringo vulgaris (Lilac), Viburnum opulus (Guelder 
rose), Calycanthus floridus (Sweet-scented shrub), Cydonia japonica 
(Scarlet Japan Quince), Pyrus Japonica, Lonicera tartarica (Tree Honey- 
suckle), Spireas, Robinia hispida (Rose Acacia), AVeigelia, &c. 

23. Group of trees to produce at the same time, contrasts in height, form, 
color and foliage. Fraxinus excelsior (European Ash), Populus dilitata 
(Lombardy Popular), Larix Europea (European Larch), Abele (Silver 
leaved Aspen), Purple Beech, Golden barked Ash, TJlmus montana 
(Scotch Elm), Deciduous Cypress, Fagus Americana (American Beech), 
Liquidambar, Pavia rubra (Buckeye) Norway Maple, Red Maple, Moun- 
tain Ash, Sassafras, Hickory, "White Birch, Betula lenta (Black Birch,) 
Hemlock, Norway Spruce Fir, Balm of Gilead. 

24. Group of trees with peculiar shaped leaves. Curled leaved Maple, 
cut-leaved Alder, cut-leaved Birch, cut-leaved Beech, entire leaved Ash, 
Aralia, Ginko tree, Hawthorn, Ring-leaved Willow, &c. 

APPENDIX No 2. 
Estimate, of cost of extension of ground and of ornamental Structure. 

DOCKING. 

1,100 perches of heavy foundation stone, @ $1, - - $1,100 00 
- ■ ■' " " "... 1,100 00 
il, 700 00 



Layinj^ 

700 feet of coping, i 



Additional length of Avenue, 

Filling behind docking 19,400 yards, and raising the ground be- 
tween Landing avenue and the river, 26,666 yards, mak- 
ing a total of 46,066 yards, (a) 20 cents, ... 

Renovation and improvement of mansion, . . . 

Small house on Sedgeley property, and house near the old ter- 
raced garden, will require on each S750, - . , 

If bridge over Girard Avenue is made of iron, add - $2,000 

Bridge over mill canal. ..... 2,500 

Two foot bridges @ $300 each, .... 600 

Eight rustic summer houses, (^ $125 each, - - - . 
Four more elaborate " 250 .... 

Six drinking fountains, 

Fountain, 

Entrances and gate houses additional, . . . . 



$2,900 00 
$3,291 00 



9,313 00 
4,500 00 

1,500 00 



Ten per cent, for contingencies, 

Superintendence, 5 per cent. 
Total, - 



• 5,100 00 
1,000 00 
1,000 00 
600 00 
2,000 00 
3,250 00 

$34,354 00 
3,435 00 

S37,789 00 
1,889 00 



. $39,678 00 



I IBRftRY OF CONGRESS 



014 314 354 5 



